Ingrown Toenails

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness and sometimes infection. It most commonly affects the big toe, but any toe can be involved. The good news is that ingrown toenails are very treatable — and our podiatry team at Blueprint Podiatry in Tuggerah sees and manages them every week.

What causes ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails can develop for a number of reasons, often in combination [1][2]:

• Improper nail trimming — cutting nails too short or rounding the corners
• Tight or ill-fitting footwear that crowds the toes
• Trauma or injury to the toe (a stubbed toe or repeated pressure from sport)
• Genetic predisposition and naturally curved nail shape
• Certain foot deformities or postural factors that alter pressure on the toe

These factors can cause the nail edge to dig into the skin, triggering inflammation and discomfort.

What are the symptoms?

Common signs of an ingrown toenail include:

• Pain or tenderness along one or both sides of the nail
• Redness and swelling around the nail edge
• Warmth, or a feeling of pressure in the toe
• Discharge, weeping or signs of infection in more advanced cases

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can become infected, so it's worth having it assessed early.

How does Blueprint Podiatry assess and treat ingrown toenails?

Our podiatry team brings together genuine clinical experience in nail and foot care. Each of our three registered podiatrists holds a Bachelor of Podiatry, so you'll always be seen by a university-qualified practitioner who can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend the right approach for you.

Treatment may include:

• Conservative care — gently removing the offending portion of nail and providing relief, often in a single appointment
• Footwear and nail-care advice to reduce the chance of recurrence
• Partial nail avulsion (nail surgery) for recurrent or stubborn ingrown toenails, where a small section of the nail is permanently removed to help prevent the problem coming back [1]

Our podiatrists will discuss the most appropriate option based on the severity of your toenail and your individual needs. We'll always explain what's involved before proceeding.

How can I prevent ingrown toenails?

• Trim nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short or rounding the corners
• Keep nails at a moderate length
• Wear comfortable, properly fitted shoes with room for your toes
• If you're prone to ingrown toenails, ask our team about tailored prevention strategies

When should I see a podiatrist?

Seek professional care if your toe is increasingly painful, swollen, weeping or showing signs of infection — particularly if you have diabetes or reduced circulation, where prompt foot care is especially important.

Related services

• Ingrown Toenail Treatment
• General Podiatry